Have you ever heard of tamarind before?
Tamarind is a fruit that comes from the tree of the same name, which is native to tropical Africa. This tree produces pods full of fruit that contain a brown, pulp-like substance that is used in cuisines in many regions of the world.
Did you know, however, that tamarind is hugely popular in Mexico and is used in a variety of dishes?
This tropical fruit is cultivated widely in Mexico, especially in the regions of Jalisco, Guerrero, Colima, Chiapas, and Veracruz. Its use in Mexican cuisine is especially known in the areas of sauces and sweets.
Tamarind can often be found as a sweeter complement to stronger, spicier flavors in some of the many salsas that are commonly consumed in the country. Chipotle tamarind sauce, for example, is delicious when slathered on top of a plate of enchiladas.
This tropical fruit is often consumed in sweets, too. Tamarind paste is commonly made into candy and combined with other flavors such as watermelon and mango. It can even be used to flavor soft drinks, as Jarritos’ tamarind flavor is one of its most beloved.
So, don’t be surprised when you find tamarind all over Mexican menus!
